How to Clean Cast Iron

It's important to know how to clean cast iron as your house cleaning business clients may need you to clean and even season their cookware. Skillets and other pots and pans made of cast iron were very popular many years ago but today, their popularity is returning.

Cast iron cooks hot, making the perfect choice for fried foods such as chicken. Additionally, cast iron is extremely strong and durable so after the financial investment, the pots and pans will last a lifetime, even being passed on to new generations.

The two most important things to know about cast iron -- seasoning and cleaning methods. A new cast iron skillet, pan, or baking dish has to be seasoned. This means the item is rubbed with lard, shortening, or bacon fat (not liquid oil), placed in a hot oven, and then cooked empty at 225 to 250 degrees for about 15 minutes. Remove the pan, throw out the excess grease, and then bake again for two hours. The oil gets into the pores of the iron, creating a non-stick surface, as well as making it last longer, cook better, and prevents rust. Be sure the pan is seasoned every couple of weeks.

It is just as important to know how to clean cast iron in that using the wrong products or methods could damage or ruin the item.

Dealing with Rust

First, if you have this type of cookware and it has become rusty, do not throw it out. We will show you how to clean cast iron with rust so it looks and cooks new. In this case, make sure you always wear protective eyewear and rubber gloves because you need to use harsh chemicals that could cause harm if they were to be exposed to the eyes or skin.

1. Spray the cast iron with oven cleaner. Place in a thick plastic garbage bag and seal
   
2. Leave the cast iron in the bag for two days to help the grease dissolve
   
3. With a fine, wire wheel attached to an electric drill or Dremel, begin cleaning the rusted areas
   
4. Next, mix one-half cup of water and one-half cup of vinegar, pouring into the cast iron item and allowing the mixture to sit for about two to four hours
   
5. When done, wipe the cast iron skillet or pan out with a clean, wet cloth
   
6. Apply the grease and complete the season process

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Second, you need to know how to clean cast iron without rust and for periodic or maintenance cleanings. For regular cleaning, follow the first two steps listed above on how to clean cast iron with rust but then, go through these steps:

1. Use a brass brush to scrub the cast iron
   
2. Wipe out with a clean, damp cloth
   
3. If needed, complete the seasoning process

After Cooking

There is a quick and easy process on how to clean cast iron after used.

1. Once you have cooked your meal with the cast iron, put about one to two cups of water in the pan, depending on the size, and bring to a boil
   
2. After reaching the boiling point, allow the hot water to soak in the skillet or pan for about 10 minutes
   
3. Dump out any leftover water and wipe out with a clean paper towel
   
4. If necessary, season the skillet for the next use

Once you season cast iron cookware a few times, you won't have to do it often. But if your clients are rough on the pan, leave it in water or use too much soap in cleaning it, you'll want to keep up with this service for them.

Cleaning cast iron cookware is a great bonus service to offer!

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